Slipping into shapewear might seem harmless – albeit really uncomfortable – beauty badges of honour. Not only do they hold it all in but also smooth out any lines from your bra or pants to ensure whatever you wear sits perfectly.  But apparently, there can be some unpleasant surprises in store for you. Although shapewear might seem like something you must have in your wardrobe, it can also set you up for some health issues. Here is a low down.

Tingling and Numbness

Do you remember how your mum would warn you about tying hairbands on your wrist fearing interruption of blood circulation? The same principle applies here too. The force that hides bulges also restricts circulation.  Wearing super tight garments can lead to a condition called meralgia paresthetica which can lead to tingling, pain, and numbness in your lower body. Pants That Will Keep You Moisturised! Australian Fashion Brand Launches Aloe Vera-Infused Clothes To Keep Your Skin Hydrated.

Ingrown Hairs

Your waxing lady must have told you several times to wear loose clothes as much as possible. They did not tell you for no reason. Wearing tight clothes can increase the friction in your lady parts and lead to ingrown hairs. Further, bacteria can also get trapped in the hair follicles and cause folliculitis that shows up as red bumps.

Varicose Veins or Blood Clots

A more serious consequence of putting so much pressure on your body for a prolonged time could be blood clots or varicose veins. The veins in the legs are not strong enough to overcome the stranglehold of body slimmers. That causes the blood to pool, stretching your veins. The pressure makes the veins inflate like balloons. You can minimise the damage by taking a brisk walk every five minutes so that the muscles squeeze the blood back up toward the heart.

Bacterial Nasties

You are not going to like this. When something so figure-hugging can make you sweat more, and that sweat and moisture can kind of become a breeding ground for bacteria. So don't be surprised if you see pesky spots on your back and tummy after use. If it is control pants that you are wearing, you could even bring on conditions like thrush. Is Loofah Bad for Skin? Here’s What Dermatologists Say and It’s Gross.

Bad Posture

You were wrong if you thought that the shapewear is going to improve your posture. That cinched-in effect might temporarily make you stand taller, relying on shapewear for good posture can eventually weaken your core muscles making it difficult for you to stand straight.

We are not suggesting you trade in your party clothes for an Amish wardrobe, just use shapewear in moderation. Also, don't jam yourself into a body shaper that's too tight. Remember that spandex can't take you from size eight to size zero.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 31, 2019 01:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).